Around nine out of every 10 new aircraft delivered in India over the next decade are expected to be powered by engines manufactured by GE Aerospace or its joint venture partner, highlighting the company’s growing role in the country’s expanding aviation sector.
Vikram Rai, CEO of GE Aerospace South Asia, said more than 1,400 GE engines are currently operating in Indian commercial aircraft. The company expects to deliver more than 3,400 additional engines over the next nine to 10 years as airlines expand their fleets to meet rising passenger demand.
GE Plans to Expand India’s Supply Chain
GE Aerospace spent approximately $200 million on developing its Indian supply chain in 2025. The company plans to nearly double this investment by 2030, according to Rai.
Its operations in India span commercial and defence aircraft engines, naval propulsion technology, component manufacturing and aerospace research. GE employs more than 2,700 people in the country and works with Indian suppliers to manufacture components for global markets.
The company’s Pune manufacturing facility produces commercial engine components, alongside a network of 16 other major Indian suppliers. Its Bengaluru technology centre supports research and engineering, having generated approximately 1,000 patents, Rai said.
India’s Aircraft Demand Creates Opportunities
India’s aviation market is preparing for a significant expansion in aircraft fleets. An industry estimate cited in GE Aerospace’s report suggests India and South Asia could require around 3,300 additional aircraft by 2044, equivalent to approximately 6,600 engines.
Indian airlines have also placed orders for more than 1,700 aircraft expected to enter service over the coming decade. A large share of these aircraft are expected to be single-aisle models, creating opportunities for engines supplied by GE Aerospace and its joint venture with Safran.
MRO Industry Could Benefit
The increase in aircraft and engine numbers is expected to create additional demand for maintenance, repair and overhaul services. GE Aerospace’s report estimates that the growing engine fleet could support a commercial opportunity worth more than $5.5 billion for India’s MRO industry.
As airlines add aircraft, maintenance facilities, component suppliers and engineering service providers could see increased demand. The expansion may also strengthen India’s role in the global aerospace supply chain.
GE Aerospace has partnered with India’s aerospace industry for nearly four decades, including work in engine maintenance, research and defence aviation. Its planned supply-chain investment is expected to deepen these partnerships as India expands its commercial aviation and aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
